The Hilux is basically Australia's Tacoma. (Although looking more like the new Ranger) Why go through the trouble of having completely different designs and tooling for different places. Seems to me economy of scale has to come into play. The "Americas" Tacoma looks beefier, but I cannot think that would be a reason to apply different designs from a completely aesthetic standpoint.

To the OP, I'm sure Toyota has extensive research to support the design of the Aussie Hilux. And they know that Australians are smart enough to not have a vendetta against diesel vehicles.

We get the "macho" Tacoma because Americans are "macho" and the majority of Tacoma buyers (few of which are represented on TW) probably still associate "diesel" with that dump truck you followed home that left you in a cloud of black soot.

Unfortunately, the discussion continues on diesel. The thing that no one seems to realize is that even if every single TW, Toyotanation, TTORA, FJCruiserForums, YOTATECH, etc. member signed a contract saying they'd purchase a diesel Tacoma as soon as Toyota made one - it still would not be enough to make it worthwhile for the company. And they obviously believe, the majority of their audience do not have an interest in diesel for this size vehicle.